Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park

Birds

The park’s diverse habitats, including forests, wetlands, and meadows, make it a haven for bird species. Many migratory birds pass through, while others are year-round residents. Below are some of the most notable bird species found in the park.

Black Stork (Ciconia nigra)
Unlike its more famous white counterpart, the black stork is a shy and secretive bird that prefers undisturbed wetlands and forests. It has striking black plumage with a metallic sheen and a long red beak.

Eurasian Pygmy Owl (Glaucidium passerinum)
One of Europe’s smallest owls, the Eurasian pygmy owl is active during the day and hunts small birds and mammals. It resides in coniferous forests and is known for its distinctive whistling calls.

European Honey Buzzard (Pernis apivorus)
This bird of prey specializes in feeding on wasps and bees, digging into nests to consume larvae. It resembles the common buzzard but has a more elongated body and a small, pigeon-like head.

Common Kingfisher (Alcedo atthis)
Easily recognizable by its brilliant blue and orange plumage, the common kingfisher can be found along the park’s streams and rivers. It hunts small fish by diving into the water with remarkable precision.

Woodlark (Lullula arborea)
A small songbird of open woodlands, the woodlark is known for its melodious, fluting song that echoes across clearings. It nests on the ground and is well-camouflaged among grasses and shrubs.

Ural Owl (Strix uralensis)
This large owl with a pale, round face and dark eyes is a top predator in the forest. It preys on rodents and small mammals and is often heard hooting at night.

Grey-headed Woodpecker (Picus canus)
Closely related to the green woodpecker, the grey-headed woodpecker is slightly smaller and has a pale gray head. It is often found in mature forests where it feeds on insects hidden in tree bark.

Northern Goshawk (Accipiter gentilis)
A powerful and stealthy bird of prey, the northern goshawk hunts in dense woodlands, preying on birds and mammals. Its broad wings and long tail allow for agile flight through the trees.

Spotted Nutcracker (Nucifraga caryocatactes)
This black-and-white speckled bird is essential for seed dispersal, particularly for pine trees. It feeds on nuts and seeds, often storing them in hidden caches for winter.

Golden Oriole (Oriolus oriolus)
A brightly colored bird with striking yellow plumage and a distinctive fluting song, the golden oriole is often heard before it is seen. It prefers deciduous woodlands with plenty of tree cover.

Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park provides a refuge for these and many other species, making it a vital conservation area in Germany. Whether you are looking for elusive mammals or spectacular birds, the park offers a rich wildlife experience.

Hunsrück-Hochwald National Park, located in western Germany, is a biodiverse region characterized by dense beech forests, rugged hills, and peat bogs. The park is home to a variety of wildlife, including elusive mammals and rare amphibians. Below are some of the more popular species found in the park.

European Wildcat (Felis silvestris)
A symbol of the park, the European wildcat is a rare and elusive species that thrives in the park’s dense forests. Unlike domestic cats, it has a bushy tail with a black tip and thick, striped fur. These nocturnal hunters primarily feed on rodents and birds.

Red Deer (Cervus elaphus)
One of the largest land mammals in the region, red deer roam the forests and open meadows of the park. Males, or stags, are known for their impressive antlers, which they shed and regrow each year. They are most active during dawn and dusk.

Roe Deer (Capreolus capreolus)
Smaller and more delicate than the red deer, roe deer are commonly seen in the park’s clearings and forest edges. They have reddish-brown fur in summer, which turns grayish in winter. These shy animals are most active at twilight.

European Badger (Meles meles)
Recognizable by its black-and-white striped face, the European badger is a nocturnal mammal that digs complex underground burrows. They are omnivorous, feeding on earthworms, small mammals, fruits, and roots.

Western Capercaillie (Tetrao urogallus)
Although a bird, the capercaillie is noteworthy due to its rarity and impressive size. These large forest grouse are known for their elaborate courtship displays and can be found in the park’s old-growth woodlands.

Common European Adder (Vipera berus)
The only venomous snake in the park, the common European adder is often found in sunny clearings and heathlands. It has a distinctive zigzag pattern along its back and is not aggressive unless provoked.

Fire Salamander (Salamandra salamandra)
A striking black-and-yellow amphibian, the fire salamander thrives in the park’s humid forests and near streams. It is nocturnal and secretes toxins as a defense against predators.

Hazel Dormouse (Muscardinus avellanarius)
This small, golden-brown rodent is known for its long hibernation period, which can last up to seven months. It prefers dense undergrowth and feeds on nuts, berries, and insects.

Eurasian Lynx (Lynx lynx)
Once extinct in much of Germany, the Eurasian lynx is slowly making a comeback. This elusive predator is known for its tufted ears, powerful build, and exceptional hunting skills, primarily preying on deer and smaller mammals.

Wild Boar (Sus scrofa)
Wild boars are a common sight in the park, foraging through the undergrowth for roots, nuts, and small animals. They are highly adaptable and can be aggressive if threatened, especially during mating season or when protecting their young.